10 Alas, my mother, that you gave me birth,a man with whom the whole land strives and contends!I have neither lent nor borrowed,yet everyone curses me.
11 The Lord said,‘Surely I will deliver you for a good purpose;surely I will make your enemies plead with youin times of disaster and times of distress.
12 ‘Can a man break iron –iron from the north – or bronze?
13 ‘Your wealth and your treasuresI will give as plunder, without charge,because of all your sinsthroughout your country.
14 I will enslave you to your enemiesin a land you do not know,for my anger will kindle a firethat will burn against you.’
15 Lord, you understand;remember me and care for me.Avenge me on my persecutors.You are long-suffering – do not take me away;think of how I suffer reproach for your sake.
16 When your words came, I ate them;they were my joy and my heart’s delight,for I bear your name,Lord God Almighty.